Holland, who plays for Dutch club AZ Alkmaar, follows in the footsteps of Mark Viduka, Paul Okon, Kevin Muscat and Scott McDonald, who all led the Young Socceroos at previous U20 World Cups.

Qantas Young Socceroos coach Jan Versleijen made the announcement at a team meetingthis morning with Brisbane Roar defender Luke DeVere named vice captain.

Australia has twice reached the semi finals of the U20 World Cup and Holland is quietly confident the class of 2009 can emulate and perhaps even surpass the feats of the '91 and '93 teams led by Okon and Muscat respectively.

"To play for Australia is every boy's dream and to lead Australia is an even bigger honour,'' Holland said.

"Some outstanding players have captained Australia and to follow in their footsteps is very special. I'm very proud of this position and will lead by example.

"We've come here to win it, that's our goal. We have a great group of players and could really achieve something at this World Cup."

Versleijen said Holland, who has worn the armband in two of the lead up games, was an obvious choice with his experience.

Holland has already represented the senior Socceroos on four occasions since making his debut against Singapore in 2008, first impressing while playing for Newcastle Jets in the A-League.

"James has been captain for the Young Socceroos and he already has a lot of experience for his young age playing in the A-League for two seasons and being in the Netherlands, where he is getting close to the first team with AZ Alkmaar,'' Versleijen said.

"He's already played for the Socceroos so he's the most experienced player we have and he has a position in midfield which helps him to execute his role as captain.

"I know in Australia the captaincy is a big deal and from my perspective you choose a captain for the quality he has as a player, his leadership on and off the field and also being a role model as a professional within the group and James ticks all the boxes.

"Luke is the vice captain so in James' absence he will lead the side."